Cancer Biochemistry Summary Quiz

Nitrites are chemical compounds often found in processed meats like pickles and sausages. They are used for preservation and color enhancement but can be harmful in large amounts.

Smoked or barbecued foods cooked at high temperatures can contain tar from coal smoke, a potential carcinogen.

α-Fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein found in the blood. Elevated AFP levels can indicate liver cancer.

Chemicals that can cause cancer.

Substances produced by tumor cells that can be detected in the blood.

A type of tumor marker that is used to monitor prostate cancer.

A type of tumor marker used to monitor colon and pancreatic cancer.

A virus that can cause cervical cancer.

Tumor cells show altered metabolism, which helps tumors survive and spread but puts a strain on the host.

The growth of a tumor can squeeze and damage nearby healthy tissues, interfering with their normal function.

Certain biochemical markers, like liver enzymes or LDH, are found at higher levels in the blood and are used to detect signs of tumors and the extent of their spread.

Cancer cells often outcompete normal cells for nutrients, like glucose, disrupting the balance of metabolism in the host.

Changes in the normal metabolic processes of the host organism, often caused by tumor growth and spread.

Cancer cells lose their normal structure and organization, becoming more rounded and less organized.

Cancer cells have a more fluid membrane, making them more invasive and able to spread.

Cancer cells divide uncontrollably and avoid programmed cell death (apoptosis).

Cancer cells lose their specialized function, becoming less specialized and focusing on growth.

Cancer cells induce the formation of new blood vessels to supply them with nutrients and oxygen.

Cancer cells consume more energy than normal cells, altering the metabolism of the host organism.

Cancer cells have altered metabolism where they use more glucose and energy for their growth.

Cancer cells can divide indefinitely, becoming 'immortal' and contributing to tumor growth.

The ability of cancer cells to avoid programmed cell death (apoptosis), allowing them to survive and multiply.

Cancer cells reprogram their metabolism to favor glucose uptake and glycolysis, even in the presence of oxygen (Warburg effect), which helps them proliferate rapidly.

Tumors prefer glycolysis, producing large amounts of lactate, even in aerobic conditions.

Radiation, like UV and ionizing radiation, can damage DNA, leading to mutations that can contribute to cancer development.

Certain genetic mutations are linked to an increased risk of cancer development. For instance, some dog breeds like Golden Retrievers and Boxers are predisposed to specific cancers.

H. pylori infection is linked to an increased risk of gastric cancer.

Sterilization in pets can decrease the risk of some breast tumors.

Benign tumors are non-invasive and localized. They remain confined to their origin and do not spread to other parts of the body. They pose minimal risk unless their growth disrupts vital functions.

Malignant tumors are invasive and metastatic. They have the ability to invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant sites through blood and lymph systems.

Loss of cell adhesion, particularly E-cadherin, allows cancer cells to break free from their original tissue and invade neighboring cells.

Cancer cells produce enzymes like collagenase, which break down the extracellular matrix, allowing them to penetrate barriers and spread.

Metastasis is the process where cancer cells spread to distant parts of the body through the blood and lymphatic systems. These cells can establish new tumors (secondary tumors) in new locations.

Cancer cells exhibit abnormally high rates of glycolysis, exceeding the needs of normal cells. This leads to excessive production of lactate, a byproduct of glycolysis.

Tumor cells outcompete normal tissues for vital nutrients, especially glucose, leading to nutrient depletion in healthy cells.

Elevated proteolysis and lipolysis (breakdown of proteins and fats) contribute to muscle and fat loss, respectively, in cancer patients leading to weight loss and weakness.

Increased cortisol levels and pro-inflammatory cytokines contribute to the metabolic disruption observed in cachexia. These imbalances further enhance muscle breakdown and energy depletion.

Initiation involves genetic mutations caused by carcinogens, leading to DNA damage and a start of the cancer process.

Promotion involves the proliferation of mutated cells under the influence of 'oncopromoters'. This stage can be reversible if exposure to oncopromoters ceases.

Progression marks the irreversible stage of cancer development. Continued uncontrolled cell division and the ability to metastasize become established.

Low-carbohydrate diets or metabolic modulators can restrict the access of tumor cells to essential nutrients, potentially slowing tumor growth.

Cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by unintentional weight loss, muscle wasting, and fatigue. It's common in cancer patients and can significantly impact survival.

E-cadherin plays a crucial role in cell adhesion, keeping cells together in tissues. Loss of E-cadherin function allows cancer cells to break away and invade surrounding tissues.